A few months ago, I posted about buying a house and getting a mortgage in Japan. There were times when I didn’t think it would be possible without a permanent residency visa, but eventually we managed it… and we move next week!
If you’re thinking of buying a house in Japan, you might want to consider getting a mortgage through Mitsubishi Tokyo UFJ bank. They were the only bank that would give me a mortgage. As one of Japan’s biggest banks, I guess they can afford the risk. I had to prove that I had been in the same company for at least one year, and show proof that my earnings were enough to repay the mortgage. However, I think the fact that my wife is a qualified nurse helped a lot because she is in a position to get a job and finance the mortgage should the English teaching industry kick me out on my behind. So, although the house is in my name, Mami is the guarantor.
Anyway, I’m busy packing boxes for the move, and plan to do it all on one day. After originally planning to use my little Suzuki Wagon R, which would have taken more than 20 trips, I came to my senses (Thanks Mike!) and reserved a nice big “High Ace Van” for the 22nd. That should cut it down to just five or six trips I hope.
My biggest concern is getting our two air conditioners out. One company was recommended but they only service the local area, and I’m in a different city. I tried calling a couple of other companies but their schedules are full over the so-called ‘busy’ season. Incidentally, why is it that every season in Japan is ‘busy’ season? I mean seriously, ask anybody if they are busy these days and they’ll say yes! Anyway, I’m hoping that a friend of a friend of a friend can help me out….. but until I hear from him, I’m just waiting it out.
Cue Mariah Carey… “All I want for Christmas is… an electrician!”
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